CandiBox is committed to facilitating candidate engagement throughout the recruitment process. As a leading digital recruitment agency, we organize daily discussions and interviews between the candidates we represent and the businesses we support. With over 90% of our first-round interviews taking place online via video conferencing apps, we have seen a significant shift in the recruitment landscape, making it easier to coordinate schedules and diaries.
In today's candidate-driven market, we are frequently asked by interviewees how they can prepare for a virtual interview. As experienced digital recruiters, we receive feedback from employers on what they expect from candidates during online interviews. We have outlined some essential tips and best practices that will help you achieve online interview success.
Preparation Tips for Virtual Interviews
- Register and Test the Interview Platform in Advance
Make sure you are familiar with the video conferencing platform that will be used for the interview. Test the audio and video quality in advance to avoid technical difficulties during the interview. - Be Ready to Hotspot
In case of any network connectivity issues, ensure that you have a backup plan, such as a mobile hotspot, to keep the interview going smoothly. - Reduce Ambient Noise Where Possible
Choose a quiet room, free from any distracting noises, to conduct the interview. If necessary, use noise-cancelling headphones to eliminate any background noise. - Consider Your Scenery and Don't Be Worried About Using Background Filters
Ensure that the background of your video call is not cluttered or distracting. If needed, use virtual backgrounds or filters that are appropriate for the interview setting. - Research the Company and Potential Interviewers via LinkedIn or Website
Research the company and the interviewers in advance to gain insight into their values, mission, and work culture. It will help you tailor your responses and impress the interviewer. - Read Through Your Job Description and Think About Real-Life Examples You Can Relate Back to the Requirements of the Role
Familiarise yourself with the job description and think of relevant examples that showcase your skills and experience. It will help you answer the interview questions with confidence and clarity.
Interview Stand-Out Tips
- Use the Mute Button When You’re Not Speaking
Mute your microphone when you are not speaking to avoid any background noise or distractions that could disrupt the interview. - Look Into the Camera When Answering the Questions Asked
Make eye contact with the interviewer by looking directly into the camera while answering their questions. It will help establish a connection and build rapport with the interviewer. - Find a Brightly Lit Room or Use Effective Lighting
Ensure that the room is well-lit, and your face is visible on the screen. Use soft, natural light sources that don't cast shadows or make your face look too bright or too dark. - Silence Alerts on Computer & Phone, Avoid Screen Distractions
Turn off all notifications and alerts on your computer and phone to avoid distractions that could interrupt the interview. Close any unnecessary windows or tabs on your computer to minimise distractions.
Avoid These During Virtual Interviews
- Arriving Late
Be punctual for the interview, and if you are delayed, explain the reason for the delay. Being accountable and transparent about any delays will demonstrate your professionalism and respect for the interviewer's time. - Not Being Ready to Present and Share Screens
Ensure that you have everything you need for the interview, such as a copy of your resume and any other relevant documents. Be prepared to share your screen if needed and make sure you know how to do it in advance. - Distracting Backgrounds
Avoid using distracting backgrounds during the interview. Choose a plain, neutral background or use a virtual background that is appropriate for the interview setting.
